South Africa may host F1 Grand Prix after three decades

More than three decades later, Formula 1 may once again be on its way back to Africa, with South Africa, Rwanda, and Zanzibar at the forefront of bringing a Grand Prix to the continent. While fans have a mixed feeling about how everything will turn out, the stakes that sport may return to the continent are high. With state backing, investment in infrastructure, and an ardent fan base, the battle to have F1 return to the continent is heating up.

South Africa's historic bid

South Africa, where F1 last visited the Kyalami Circuit in 1993, is spearheading a comeback. The nation's bid, supported by seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, is now considering two locations:

• Kyalami Circuit: The old circuit in Johannesburg suburbs, which is in dire need of re-development to achieve FIA's Grade 1 license
• Cape Town Street Circuit: An in-principle 5.7 km circuit close to the V&A Waterfront and DHL Stadium, which readily accommodated Formula E in 2023.

Rwanda's ambitions

Rwanda was a strong contender, banking on its increasing image as an investment and sports hub. President Paul Kagame officially opened the country's bid at the FIA General Assembly, citing the nation's passion for motorsport. Bugesera circuit, close to the international airport, is being developed by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz. The circuit, built across the hills of Rwanda, will provide thrilling racing and fit into the country's master plan for development.

Zanzibar's daring vision

Zanzibar emerges as a surprise but ambitious challenger, with proposals for the Majestic Complex, a world-class motorsport and tourism facility. The major highlights are:

• 7.6 km circuit– possibly the longest in F1 history
• Luxury marina and expo centre to draw international investors
• 1,500-room hotel and tourism infrastructure to make Zanzibar a world-class racing destination.

Zanzibar's initiative is part of its wider infrastructure boom, such as the Burj Zanzibar, the world's tallest timber skyscraper, to be built in Fumba Town.

The battle for Africa’s F1 slot

While the F1 schedule is increasing, competition for the slots is stiff. While Rwanda is at the moment in the lead, Zanzibar's ambitious infrastructural development initiative leaves the race wide open. A high test could be the cost of staging the Grand Prix. Monte Carlo paid $20 million in 2023, while Italy and Belgium paid each $25 million as a hosting fee. The support for African F1 is driven by online engagement and experiences like the Paddock Experience in Nairobi where up to 600 fans attend race screenings per a 2024 Guardian report, a local Grand Prix's appeal is stronger than ever.

Also Read: Madrid Grand Prix to debut in 2026 as F1 calendar got revamped

With the Dutch GP to leave after 2026, a vacancy in the 2027 season is the perfect chance for Africa's return to the F1 calendar. South Africa, Rwanda, or Zanzibar, the vision of an African Grand Prix is nearer than ever.